On 17 October 2021, 42 seekers from 21 cities around the globe completed the ‘Running From The Mind’ challenge, organized by Chinmaya Mission Niagara. Seekers with various levels of experience were invited to quieten their minds through long distance running or walking. The only guidance that Shri Vivek Gupta provided was to run or walk without input; this meant no listening to podcasts, chants or music. This guidance ensured that the runners paid attention to the thoughts arising in the mind rather than seeking distraction from media.
For five months, this group sought ways to support one another, build accountability and encourage each person on his or her journey. The 42 seekers repeatedly engaged in the community through multiple channels and formats. Everything from email threads where seekers shared their physical and spiritual goals to virtual documentary film gatherings, helped build an ongoing sense of togetherness regardless of physical distance. One seeker even developed a data tracker to document each person’s daily run and reflection. This tool not only created a centralized location for seekers to monitor each other’s progress but also reinforced the collective effort being made.
The challenge culminated when most of the group completed a half-marathon (13.1 miles / 21.1 kms) in their respective cities. For most, this accomplishment demonstrated the power of quieting the mind and building stillness in the intellect.
This was the fifth consecutive year for the ‘Running From The Mind’ challenge and already there is much anticipation for next year, as more seekers aim to benefit from the power of this group activity.
Report by Theos Stamoulis
